Innergy Magazine and the EZ Way Network held a red carpet gala ‘Voices Heard’ at the Marriott Hotel in Menifee on Saturday, Feb. 24. The event addressed the challenges faced by today’s youth, with guest speakers confronting issues such as bullying, depression and more. The event provided a platform for young people affiliated with the magazine to share their stories and successes while promoting various vendors that have a connection with Innergy Magazine.
Special guests included Karate Kid 3, the Bold and the Beautiful, Cobra Kai actor Sean Kenan; model and award winning scientist, published writer and fashion run away model Rachel Pizzolato; and Professional wrestler and social media influencer Kidd Bandit. Additionally, artist Da’ante Bowman and Hip-Hop group RCC performed.
At the event, CEO and publisher of Innergy Magazine Dr Kymberli Boynton spoke of her passion for helping the youth stating that “I stand here today to affirm that their voices matter, their stories are important, and their struggles are not in vain….by recognizing the challenges they [youth] face and celebrating their efforts, you’re contributing to the growth and betterment of these generations.”
In the speech given by model Pizzalato she recalled her difficult experiences with highschool peers. She recognised that highschool students are all confronted with the same challenges and all want to fit in. Pizzalato stated that a person who did not treat her well during highschool later realized the error of their ways and apologized to her at the end of the school year. “That takes courage,” said Pizzalato.
“I always see the value of giving people a second chance.
Professional wrestler and social media influencer Kidd Bandt said, “Moving from the Philippines to the US, being transgender and growing up punk meant that I was a misfit everywhere I went.” Kidd discovered her mission in life through professional wrestling. “Seeing people like me attend shows gave me and them a sense of comfort. If I can make it, they know they can too. It goes both ways.”
The event also included 15-year-old entrepreneur Hanna Carter who is the director of the Global Society for Female Entrepreneurs Riverside county youth group. Hanna started her nonprofit “Hanna’s Hope” distributing items and crafts to St Jude’s Medical Hospital when she was 8 years old. She uses her painting and jewelry making skills to fund her venture, and got her inspiration to begin her non profit while watching a St Jude commercial turning to her grandmother saying, “I want to raise money for kids” – a statement that now is a reality.
Additionally, Hanna holds monthly paint and sip events as a fundraiser which is an opportunity for her to promote and gain more support for her nonprofit. Hanna recently received a Presidential Gold medal from President Biden for 3,000 volunteer hours in 2023, and is hugely supported by her grandmother Dr Michelle Lewis.
The “Voices Heard” event is one of many events that are organized by Innergy magazine. For more information on their mission, magazine issues and future events, visit their website at https://innergymagazine.com
